Former Sale Sharks lock Hyron Andrews died after a fall at the Johannesburg Lions' team hotel ahead of their Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle on Saturday.

SA Rugby confirmed the 31‑year‑old forward passed away following the accident at the hotel.

The Lions will play the opening‑round match in Andrews’ honour, and a minute’s silence is planned for all European Champions Cup games this weekend.

Lions chief executive Rudolf Straeuli expressed condolences to Andrews’ wife Maighlin and their sons Hendrix and Emerson, describing the second‑rower as a gifted athlete and valued squad member.

South African Rugby Union president Mark Alexander also offered sympathy, calling the loss devastating for the family, teammates and the wider rugby community.

Andrews had returned to South Africa this summer after leaving Sale Sharks, quickly becoming a regular for the Lions, featuring in all three United Rugby Championship games this season.

He made his first start for the Lions in a match against the Bulls, having previously helped the team secure early‑season wins over defending champions Leinster.

Andrews originally joined Sale in February 2024 from the Durban‑based Sharks as injury cover for England lock Jonny Hill, making 45 appearances before his return home.

Sale Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson paid tribute, noting Andrews’ skill, charismatic presence and devotion as a husband and father, and recalling how quickly he and his family settled in Manchester.

The tragedy echoes the death of Munster coach Anthony Foley a decade earlier, who also died on the eve of a Champions Cup match.